Adventures With Michele - Pack Happy Travel

06/25/2024

🚨Happy NEWS for fans of Fastpass+: Starting July 24, you’ll be able to book Lightning Lanes BEFORE you arrive at Walt Disney World. Genie+ will become Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Individual Lightning Lane will change to Lightning Lane Single Pass. Here’s what you need to know:

Lightning Lane Multi Pass (formerly Genie+) -

- At WDW, book up to 3 LL before you arrive
- Resort guests book 7 days prior, all other guests 3 days prior
- On day of visit, once you use a LL, you can book additional LL at any park. You can hold 3 Multi Pass LL at any time.

Lightning Lane Single Pass: These function the same as the current Individual Lightning Lane passes. However, now you’ll be able to purchase and plan before you arrive at Walt Disney World.

Lightning Lane Multi Pass will allow you to prebook 3 attractions each day in a single park (same as FastPass+). On day of visit, you’ll be able to book another LL after you use one - and that LL can be in any park (if you have Park Hopper on ticket).

Here’s a look at the list of Lightning Lane attractions and the different groups/tiers that will apply to prebooking LL. No “tiers” at Animal Kingdom - and you’ll only be bable to prebook one experience from the first group at the other parks.

I’m sure we will all have some questions but they will be answered soon!

06/20/2024

It's officially summertime, and the Summer Solstice is here, kicking off awesome celebrations all over the world. Looking for a unique adventure next summer? You gotta check out the magical midnight sun in Alaska! In some parts of Alaska, you get endless daylight during the summer season.🌞

I have a client taking an Alaskan railroad trip next month and my excitement for them is off the charts.🚂

The arrival of summer brings one-of-a-kind celebrations in Alaska. Communities across the state host lively festivals and events. From the Midnight Sun Baseball Game in Fairbanks, where players compete under the bright sun at midnight, to golfing at midnight, and the Summer Solstice Festival in Nome, filled with music, art, and local delicacies.🏞️

During the summer, the extended daylight provides more time to explore the great outdoors. Enjoy hiking through breathtaking national parks, kayaking along stunning coastlines, and fishing in crystal-clear waters.

It’s a perfect time for bear viewing, whale watching, and birdwatching. The extra daylight hours allow for more opportunities to witness Alaska's incredible wildlife in their natural habitats. Alaska offers a truly unforgettable experience.🐻🐋🐦

Happy summertime, everyone! I hope you and your loved ones make the most of this fun season.🌅

06/18/2024

Ok planners! Disney Cruise Line just released its itineraries for Fall of 2025 and early 2026. Full schedules can be seen here.

Here’s a quick look at everywhere Disney sails:
Europe
Caribbean
The Bahamas
Westbound Transatlantic
Panama Canal
Baja California and Mexican Riviera
Pacific Coast
Hawai’i
South Pacific
New Zealand and Australia

For highly desirable itineraries, we will want to get you booked ASAP!

These will go on sale to the general public on Friday, June 28th. Here’s the Booking Information for Castaway Club members:

• Monday, June 24, 2024: Pearl Members

• Tuesday, June 25, 2024: Pearl and Platinum Members

• Wednesday, June 26, 2024: Pearl, Platinum and Gold Members

• Thursday, June 27, 2024: Pearl, Platinum, Gold and Silver Members

• Friday, June 28, 2024: all Guests

06/15/2024

🚨 Special Travel Advisor Exclusive Offer Alert for Universal Orlando + West Coast Deal too! 🚨

This is something to get excited about!

💰 Save up to $1,300* on a 3-Park, 5-Night Vacation Package at Universal Orlando Resort - this is a Travel Advisor EXCLUSIVE offer!

There is so much to look forward to at Universal this summer with the opening of Dreamworks Land and the debut of an all new nighttime show - CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular - both new today - June 14th!

OR -

🎬 Head out to Universal Studios Hollywood where you can Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free Promo Ticket

If you are ready for an Epic summer - let’s plan your trip to Universal!

06/11/2024

Today, during a special “Dig A Little Deeper” showcase for media at Magic Kingdom, Disney shared some updates from across Walt Disney World. Here are the highlights so you are in the know!

⚜️ Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens June 28 - Tiana’s story continues with her wanting to give a big thanks to her community for all the support they’ve given to her as a successful entrepreneur. But it turns out there’s been a bit of a mix-up with the party prep and an essential ingredient is missing!

🪕Country Bear Musical Jamboree Debuts July 17 - get ready to knee slap and toe-tap to some country twang as a new Country Bear Musical Jamboree arrives to Frontierland in Magic Kingdom.

🧜‍♀️FIRST LOOK: The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure In Hollywood Studios- The story is told from Ariel’s viewpoint, as a young, empowered, strong heroine searching for where she belongs. The show brings a different aesthetic and two additional music numbers “Daughters of Triton” and the iconic “Kiss the Girl”.

🦁‘Lion King’ Roars into Animal Kingdom – “The Lion King” is celebrating its 30th anniversary at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in a big way! Now until Sept. 6, fans can enjoy character meet and greets, themed food and drinks, unique merchandise and more “only at Disney” surprises.

🤗Joy Joins Pixar Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios - Starting today, guests can meet Joy from the Disney and Pixar Animation Studios film “Inside Out 2”.

🛸Disney Characters Hit the Sky at Disney Springs - This summer, guests can enjoy “Disney Dreams that Soar presented by AT&T” at Disney Springs featuring state-of-the-art drones choreographed to create designs in the sky with an amazing musical score.

💦Typhoon Lagoon After-Hours Parties - H20 Glow is back at Typhoon Lagoon. The water park takes on a whole “neon” light with a DJ dance party, character appearances, complimentary snacks and more. Available on select nights through summer!

🎤“Encanto” Summer Sing-Along at EPCOT - A new summer sing-along featuring the beloved songs and story of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto.” This limited-time show “¡Celebración Encanto!” runs several times a day on the newly unveiled CommuniCore Plaza Stage.

06/07/2024

🚢 🚨 Two alerts:

1. Today, the very first cruisers are visiting the all new private destination - Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera, The Bahamas! First reports are that it’s even more beautiful in person than pictures are able to show! Sounds like this will be a fabulous addition to your Disney cruise.

2. A new offer just sailed in from Disney Cruise Line! Now through August 9th - Pay only 50% of required deposit to book your sailing with Disney Cruise Line!

Book select Disney cruises by August 9, 2024, and pay only half of your required deposit on the day you make your reservation. See Important Details below.

This promotion is valid on any new reservation for select Disney cruises aboard the Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Magic and Disney Wish. Eligible departure dates are:

Disney Wonder: October 20, 2024, through February 24, 2025

Disney Dream: January 4, 2025, through March 29, 2025

Disney Magic: January 6, 2025, through March 20, 2025

Disney Wish: January 3, 2025, through March 31, 2025

This promotion is available for bookings that do not require final payment at time of booking. Remaining balance will be due at time of final payment.

More important details to note:
• Not valid on Disney Treasure or Disney Fantasy sailings.
• Taxes, fees, port expenses, Port Adventures and gratuities are separate and not included in the deposit amount.
• Not valid on categories with restrictions (IGT, OGT, VGT), suites or Concierge-level staterooms.
• Rates are in US dollars.
• This promotion cannot be combined with any other promotions, offers or discounts.
• Offer subject to Disney Cruise Line Terms and Conditions.

I’ll be returning from my adventures soon and would love to help you find the perfect sailing!

06/06/2024

Today, we honor the brave soldiers who stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, 80 years ago. Their courage and sacrifice changed the course of history and paved the way for the freedoms we cherish today.

Visiting Normandy is a powerful experience, allowing you to walk in the steps of heroes and reflect on the bravery displayed on that day. 🇺🇸🙏🌹

06/01/2024

If you just can’t wait to see it in person, Disney has released a full ride through video of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure! The animatronics look incredible and I almost forgot just how long this ride is! Nearly 9 and a minutes!

The ride opens to the public on June 28th ~ we’re almost there!

Join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on their journey through a shimmering bayou as they prepare for a spirited celebration during Mardi Gras ...

05/30/2024

My office view for only a few hours this afternoon. Taking care of clients and getting quotes out while on my own Mediterranean vaca. Always in work mode. Life of a TA but love it.

05/25/2024

Happy National Wine Day! What better place to celebrate than in Roma, one of the world's best vino spots on a stunning rooftop with incredible views? You have to experience the ultimate wine adventure. 🇮🇹🍇

05/25/2024

The Disney 100 Exhibition opened today at Union Station in Kansas City!! My spies back home tell me that it is a Disney lover’s dream. Can’t wait to explore for myself next month! How nice to have some Disney magic in our own backyard. ✨

Are you planning to go?? I’d love to hear your favorite discoveries!

05/21/2024

Aloha! 🌺 Bookings are now open for 2025 arrivals at Aulani_, A Disney Resort & Spa_ in Ko Olina, Hawai’i!

Aulani is such a wonderful destination to both relax, and explore from. If you are looking for more adventure during your trip to Oahu, I’ve got lots of ideas - from a visit to the Dole Plantation 🍍 to Kualoa Ranch where Jurassic Park was filmed 🦖 and beyond!

Let’s send you to Hawaii next year!

📸credit Disney

05/21/2024

Checking out of office for a 2 1/2-week trip to the Mediterranean to enjoy some quality time with my honey and bask in the fabulous Mediterranean sunshine. We are passionate about exploring the lesser-known areas as well as the recognizable sites we all know and love. I’ll be sharing our adventures as we wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Rome, sail through the gorgeous Greek Isles, and hike the stunning Amalfi Coast in Italy. I’ll be updating my stories often so follow along with me! 🇮🇹🍝🇬🇷🍷🛳️🥾☀️❤️

05/15/2024

Just returned from a whirlwind adventure a couple of weeks ago... what a ride it's been! I’m a little weary but bursting with gratitude for the memories we've created! 🎢🌟

First up, MIMI (that's me!) had a magical week at Disney World with my daughter and granddaughter. There’s nothing like experiencing Disney through the eyes of your grandbabies meeting Mickey and the gang, riding rides, and going to shows. We laughed, we screamed, and had lunch with princesses... every magical moment was a memory we will always cherish. 🏰👑

Then, to shift gears, I headed to Las Vegas for a week to celebrate a friend's birthday… though not the Vegas you might expect! We traded the neon lights for starlit nights with some serene camping off the Strip at Valley of Fire State Park. (Some friendly bighorn sheep joined the party too.) 🏕️ From the liveliness of Disney to the peaceful silence of nature, these weeks were a true breath of fresh air. 🌿

Was it a lot? Not at all, we're overflowing with joy! Wouldn't change a thing about these precious moments spent making memories with the people I love most. Because in the end, isn't that what life's all about? 🎉💕

Here's to adventures big and small and memories that last a lifetime! 🌟💖

05/14/2024

It’s almost time to splash down at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom!

Yesterday, we learned that the ride will open to the public on Friday, June 28. Today, we know that a virtual queue will be in place - at least for a while - to allow guests to ride. It will function as other VQs do with guests being able to join from anywhere at 7am, and an additional chance at 1pm from inside the park. Initially, there will be no standby line for the ride.

Once some time has passed, the ride will be included with Genie+ service as a Lightning Lane selection. Not to be confused with the paid Individual Lightning Lane Selections (currently TRON and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train). If all this makes your head spin - you need my help!

Tiana’s Famous Beignets will also be available to celebrate for a limited time (please, can we have them always?!? 🙏) at Golden Oak Outpost and The Friar’s Nook.

05/10/2024

I have to say, Walt Disney World is a pretty special place to celebrate being a Mom or a Mimi! Happy Mother’s Day weekend and may your day be special no matter where you are! 💐

05/05/2024

Happy Cinco de Mayo, everyone! 🎉 Today isn't just a day for fantastic fiestas… it's a celebration of Mexico's rich heritage. Let's take a moment to appreciate and dream about visiting the diverse beauty of Mexico's many destinations!

Imagine exploring Cozumel for incredible snorkeling with its stunning coral reefs just off the coast. It's like swimming in a giant aquarium!

Or perhaps you'd prefer Tulum. With its mix of ancient Mayan ruins and gorgeous beaches, it's like stepping back in time with a view that can't be beaten!

Of course I have to mention Cancún! This vibrant area offers more than just its famous white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's a haven for sunbathers, and it's a great place to relax and maybe even find a good party.

Don't forget Cabo San Lucas's stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and the dramatic beauty of the El Arco rock formation at Land's End. It’s also a top destination for whale watching. It's an incredible experience to see these majestic creatures up close!

Wherever you choose to explore, Mexico promises an adventure filled with warmth and wonder. So today, let's raise a glass (perhaps of tequila or mezcal) to Mexico's charm and the adventures that await us. Viva Mexico! 🇲🇽✈️🌮

05/03/2024

🗺 Maps! I love maps - especially when it’s somewhere new to explore! This one is a just-released look at Disney’s second private island destination - Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Guests sailing on Disney Cruise Line will be able to explore the area next month.

We’ve also received some details about entertainment at Lookout Cay.

“RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration” will be celebration of Bahamian culture filled with colorful parades of dancing and music. There will also be games to play at the Play-Play Pavilion during the “Fun in the Sun Beach Bash.”

And of course, your favorite Disney characters will make appearances in some super cute outfits.

I can’t wait to experience this area for myself - I already love visiting Disney’s Castaway Cay and how it extends the amenities of the ship with food, soft drinks and kids clubs included. Not to mention Serenity Bay adults only area 😎. Lookout Cay will offer the same perks but with all new spaces and details to explore!

04/30/2024

Words can’t describe how I felt in this moment! Don’t wait to make the memories - but also, don’t think your kids / grandkids / heck - YOU may be too old to find the magic. I promise you it’s there at any and every age!

Let me be your fairy godmother to make the trip happen! 🧚

04/26/2024

Pixar Fest returns in a big way to the Disneyland Resort! Happening now, through August 4th so if you’ve got just a few days for a dose of Disney this summer, I think this could be the way to go!

So many fun characters, tons of entertainment and of course, great food and souvenirs! Let’s all go be kids again at Disneyland! 🏰✨

You can find the link to my trip inquiry form in my bio, and in today’s stories!

04/25/2024

I'm absolutely thrilled to share that one of my lucky clients is off to Paris this May, and honestly, I'm so excited for them. It feels like I'm the one going! 🇫🇷✈️

First stop: the City of Lights, where they'll stroll along the historic streets, marvel at the Eiffel Tower, and indulge in the finest croissants.

But that's not all… they're also venturing into France's legendary wine country. They'll sip on exquisite Bordeaux and experience the beautiful French vineyards. I'm already daydreaming about their wine tastings and the scenic drives through the countryside.

Here's to living vicariously through my clients and planning trips that even I can't help but envy. 🌟🍾

04/23/2024

🗓🍴 🍷 Mark your calendars: The 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE takes place at Walt Disney World Aug. 29 through Nov. 23!

If you are a fan of the festival, you’ll note that this is about a month shorter than the last couple of years but is actually closer to traditional dates.

You can expect lots of fun food booths, music, and cute festival merchandise (I’m eying those iconic trash can salt & pepper shakers (I think??)) as usual. I’m excited to see how they use new space - CommuniCore Hall to add something fresh for this year’s festival!

There is always something to look forward to at Walt Disney World!

04/21/2024

It's National Park Week, from April 20-28, let's celebrate our amazing national parks. As a big national park fan, I want to hear from you! Which national park do you love most?🏞️

This week, the national parks actually waive entrance fees to encourage visitors to experience the diverse beauty of over 400 national parks and learn how the park services work to preserve heritage and offer recreational adventures.🌄

From Zion's rugged beauty to Bryce Canyon's dramatic terrain, and Yellowstone's pristine landscapes, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you're a hiker, a photographer, or just love being in nature, there's a park out there with your name on it.🥾📷🌲

04/17/2024

I recently posted about the incredible nature surrounding San Francisco and received some specific buzz about Big Sur, a place Kurt and I absolutely love. (My pics don’t do it justice.) It's a stunning part of California's coast, with beautiful cliffs with the Pacific as a backdrop.🌊🏞️

From hiking trails to postcard-worthy photo spots and the freshest air, Big Sur is a gem. I've trekked its redwood forests, been awestruck by McWay Falls, and relaxed on its pristine beaches. Oh, and check out the amazing lodging accommodations in the pics. (Can you ID that cool character in the mirror?)📸🥾

Believe me, the experiences Big Sur offers are unforgettable. Big Sur is a must-visit. Let me help you plan your trip to this breathtaking spot.🌲

04/16/2024

Make way for Prince Ali! - and Mirabel, and Tiana, and Cinderella!

1900 Park Fare, a character dining location at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort recently reopened after a lengthy closure and so far, glowing reviews are rolling in!

Super fun character greetings, wonderful food, and updated decor are all receiving praise. You might be wondering what Aladdin as Prince Ali, Mirabel, Tiana and Cinderella have in common. At first glance, it does sound like an odd mix but, there is a reason - they are all “Wish Makers” and by visiting them at 1900 Park Fare, you are a Wish Maker too!

Your server will present you with a “Wish Makers Dining Experience” card and will prompt you to think of a wish to write down before the “Wish Ceremony.” This is such a fun interactive touch and gives you something fun to discuss with the characters when they make their rounds. On the back of the card are autographs from each of them, a fun little souvenir.

Fun Fact: Did you know that this is currently the only place on Walt Disney World property where you can be guaranteed to meet a prince?

I definitely recommend an advance reservation for 1900 Park Fare. Dining reservations are something I love helping my clients with - from personally tailored recommendations, to getting up at 6am Mickey Time (EST) to secure them, I’ve got you covered. You might say, I’m a Wish granter 😉 💫 🧚‍♀️

04/12/2024

🎶 Almost There 🎶

This is all making me even more excited to experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure when it opens! Critter Co-Op and Tiana’s Bayou General are two new retail locations that will be opening in the Magic Kingdom.

Critter Co-Op (where I just know Mimi will be making some purchases for the littles 😉) is taking the place of the old Briar Patch gift shop that was in front of Splash Mountain - you can peek in the windows right now so we know it’s close! Tiana’s Bayou General will be the gift shop as you exit the ride.

Did you get that song stuck in your head too?? 😉 Maybe a re-water of Princess and the Frog is in order this weekend! 👑🐸

04/10/2024

As your trusty travel guide, I must insist. You NEED to experience Turks and Caicos. A recent client of mine just came back raving about it, and I'm right there with them. Relax in crystal-clear waters, kick back on soft white beaches, soak in all the sunshine you can handle, and munch on what might just be the best seafood on the planet.

🏖️Whether you're a snorkeling enthusiast eager to explore vibrant coral reefs, a beachcomber in search of the perfect stretch of sand, or simply someone needing a tranquil escape, these islands offer a slice of paradise for every traveler.

🐚And don't forget to indulge in the local delicacy… conch! There's a good chance you'll come face-to-face with a conch while diving. Whether you prefer it cracked, fried, or in a zesty salad, experiencing conch in Turks and Caicos is a must-do that's sure to add a quirky tale to your travel stories.

🌴Let's talk and make this dream a reality! 🐠🍹✈️

04/05/2024

More updates for Epcot are on the way! Test Track will be closing on June 17 for reimagining. If you are a fan of the ride as it currently stands, plan your visit now. I’m excited to see the updates as Disney released more updates - for now, we get a peek with the attached artist’s renderings.

04/03/2024

When you think of San Francisco, you probably think of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and cable cars, but there's so much nature surrounding the city that's worth exploring. Let's dive into this incredible area.

A few pictures show a fantastic day trip we took north of San Francisco, hiking at San Francisco Beach, enjoying Stinson Beach, and exploring Muir Woods. It was a fabulous day trip north of San Fran.

There’s so much more to explore near San Fran too such as the iconic Yosemite National Park, which is about three hours away from SF. It's an absolute paradise for climbers, hikers, and nature lovers. From the majestic El Capitan to the serene Yosemite Valley, it's an experience that will leave you amazed.

Big Sur isn't a national park, but this stunning stretch along Highway 1 offers views so spectacular that you'll want to pull over every 5 minutes. The dramatic coastline, hidden coves, and towering redwoods are out-of-this-world cool.

Don't forget about Point Reyes National Seashore. Just a stone's throw from the city, this coastal area is a haven for wildlife, hiking trails, and breathtaking ocean views. Whether it's whale watching or exploring historic lighthouses, there's something for everyone.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a bit farther but absolutely worth the trip for a change of scenery. You can't help but be in awe as you walk among giants in the land of towering sequoias… it's like stepping into a fairy tale.

I have so many more ideas for this area, so let's talk. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure around San Francisco.🌉🌳🏞️🌊📸

04/02/2024

99% of guests riding Tiana’s Bayou Adventure won’t know that all of the critters have a backstory, not just the stars of the movie! But you will if you read this, you will be in the know…

I love the new attraction poster for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride that opens this summer and if you look closely, you’ll see several faces you may not recognize. Disney is intentional with every detail going into a ride or attraction in the park. In this case, those cute faces will appear in the ride and it’s important to Disney that all have their own backstory. The Disney Parks Blog has been telling us a bit about them.

Today, they are telling us about the animals that march with Rara. “Often found at festivals and street processions, Rara is a musical tradition from Haiti that’s part of the musical history and melting pot of New Orleans. The genre includes unique instruments with beautiful, distinctive sounds.

Here are the Rara musicians you’ll discover further down the bayou!

Octavia the Bobcat – Octavia plays the vaksin, a single-note horn instrument popular in Rara music. She’s an adventurous bobcat kitten, and she loves climbing and hanging out in trees almost as much as she loves performing. This daredevil almost never gets scared.

Pawpaw the Bobcat – Not only is Pawpaw Octavia’s devoted grandfather, but he also taught her how to play the vaksin! Pawpaw lives to make Octavia smile and has the view that everything has a way of working itself out – he’s seen it all but isn’t jaded.

Claude the Louisiana Black Bear – Claude is a salt of the earth kind of bear (or, as they say in the bayou, “salt of the mound”) who plays his horn along with the other members of his family. He’s a tinkerer who loves to create with things found in the forest, and is frequently funny without intending to be, especially when it comes to his home-grown creations.

Bernadette the Louisiana Black Bear – Bernadette loves to enjoy life, from splashing in the waters of her bayou home with her cub, Sebastián, to playing the horn with her mate, Claude. She’s a clear thinker and is warm and supportive. Bernadette loves to sink into the bayou waters and munch on plants (so long as Sebastián is clearly within sight).

Sebastián the Louisiana Black Bear – Though he’s definitely a “mama’s cub,” Sebastián charted his own musical course as a drummer, despite his parents being devoted horn players. He’s happy to follow his friend Octavia’s adventurous lead as they explore and play, and is fascinated with the small details in the bayou, like the insects and mushrooms.

Phina the Gray Fox – Phina’s enthusiasm extends beyond her drumming, as she’s constantly thinking of new ideas with optimism and energy! This imaginative fox is continually starting new projects with excitement, and her friends accept and celebrate her unique thinking.